Dizziness and Vertigo: The Skillful Examination

J Neuroophthalmol. 2020 Sep;40(3):e49-e61. doi: 10.1097/WNO.0000000000000980.

Abstract

Background: The visual, ocular motor and vestibular systems have intimate neural and close anatomical relationship that dictates their assessment in a patient with dizziness and vertigo.

Results: Recognition of the pearls and pitfalls of a targeted clinical examination HINTS/HINTS "Plus" allows the clinician to probe at the bedside the most crucial hypothesis in a patient with acute isolated vestibular syndrome, "Is this a stroke?"

Conclusion: By applying a methodical approach to examination of patients with dizziness and vertigo, localization of the offending lesion, management, and even elucidation of the underlying diagnosis is feasible.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Dizziness / diagnosis*
  • Dizziness / etiology
  • Eye Movements / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Vertigo / complications*
  • Vertigo / diagnosis
  • Visual Acuity*